The US State Department has approved a possible $188-million Foreign Military Sale covering F-16 sustainment services and related equipment for the Royal Air Force of Oman. The proposed package includes support for major and minor modifications, spare parts, software assistance, communications equipment, ground-handling equipment, logistics, and program-management services. Washington classifies the items included in the package as non-major defense equipment. Although Lockheed Martin is the manufacturer of the F-16 and normally provides extensive maintenance and lifecycle support for the aircraft, the notification does not identify a principal contractor for this potential sale. The proposed work schedule has also not been disclosed. Oman reportedly operates approximately 24 F-16 Fighting Falcons, making it one of several Middle Eastern F-16 users alongside Bahrain, Iraq, and the United Arab Emirates. Oman’s location near the Strait of Hormuz and the Arabian Sea gives its air force strategic importance. Maintaining the readiness of its F-16 fleet would therefore help Oman contribute to regional security operations and potential coalition missions.
